In 1917 New Orleans, a twelve-year-old girl named Violet lives in a brothel that is both home and refuge. There, surrounded by the bohemian and colorful life of the sex workers, she begins to discover her own identity in an environment that blends innocence and exploitation. The place, run by Violet's mother, serves as a meeting point for a diverse clientele, from businessmen to artists, seeking an escape from reality.
Violet's dilemma becomes tangled when she catches the attention of a bohemian photographer who has just arrived in town. As she grapples with her own puberty and romantic interests, her life takes an unexpected turn as she is drawn to the fascinating yet dangerous lives of those around her. The relationship that develops with the photographer exposes her to a world of passions, longings, and internal conflicts.
As the story unfolds, Violet struggles against the pressures of growing up in an environment where the loss of innocence is inevitable. The film explores themes of freedom, vulnerability, and the cost of searching for identity in a world that gazes at her with a mix of desire and disdain. Ultimately, Violet must make choices that will define not only her future but also her views on love and autonomy.